Facilitator's Guide: - College in Colorado

Grade 11, Education After High School 6: Research I
Student Handbook, College Research Vocabulary
College Research Vocabulary
American College Test (ACT): college entrance exam that measures educational
development in English, mathematics, social studies, and the natural sciences.
(NOTE: Most colleges accept scores from either the ACT or SAT.)
Class Rank: student’s academic standing in his or her graduating class. For example,
top 25 percent, lower 50 percent, etc.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): financial aid form from the federal
government for students seeking aid.
Financial Aid: any type of assistance used to pay college costs.
Grade Point Average (GPA): a weighted average based on the grades you receive
and the number of credits you take.
Major: subject area a student concentrates in during college. At most colleges, students
take a third to half of their courses in their major.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT): an exam measuring the critical thinking skills
needed for academic success in college. It measures skills in three areas: critical
reading, mathematics, and writing. (NOTE: Most colleges accept scores from either
the ACT or SAT.)
Transcript: official record of a student’s coursework.
Tuition: cost of instruction charged by a school; tuition does not include fees, books,
room, meals, or other charges.
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